LIV Players in Spotlight Before Bankruptcy Case Returns to Court Oct. 7
Star players could serve on a key creditors committee.
The bankruptcy proceedings for LIV Golf have resumed, with the league granted access to the first $14 million of a $49.6 million loan provided by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF). The funds, part of the league's debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing, were approved after a recent hearing in New Jersey District U.S. Bankruptcy Court.
LIV's cash reserves were limited to $15 million before filing for bankruptcy, making the DIP funding crucial for paying creditors and sustaining litigation. However, the initial funding falls short of satisfying all the league's obligations, as its largest creditors are owed over $64 million in total. LIV's overall liabilities are estimated between $500 million and $1 billion, with some significant sums owed to players for future contract guarantees that the league is attempting to nullify.
The next court hearing is set for October 7, where LIV must meet various milestones, including obtaining a "requisite number of players" to agree to new contracts by October 13. If this requirement is not met, BC Partners' $300 million investment could be jeopardized. The private credit firm is seeking confirmations of commitment from key LIV sponsors to honor their existing contracts.
A formation meeting to select a creditors committee, composed of the seven largest unsecured creditors, has not yet been scheduled. This committee will investigate LIV's business operations and help develop a reorganization plan. BC Partners has committed to providing $300 million in funding if LIV successfully emerges from bankruptcy, with the potential to own 45% of the league.
The investment is divided into a $127.5 million loan for a 5% ownership stake, $147.5 million in senior preferred equity for an additional 10% stake, and $25 million of subordinated convertible preferred stock convertible into a 30% stake.
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